One of three new members elected to Estevan’s City Council, Matthew Dubowski, is eager to make a positive impact on the community. The 27-year-old expressed gratitude and optimism as he reflected on his election experience and his goals moving forward.
“My reaction was kind of flat at first when I was watching the results at City Hall,” Dubowski admitted. “I didn’t really process it right away. I was still trying to do the math and figure out, ‘Oh, did I actually get the sixth seat?’”
Once the final count confirmed his victory, the reality began to sink in. “I was like, ‘Oh, okay, that’s cool.’ Then I started to feel really grateful for the support that I did have.”
Dubowski emphasized his commitment to Estevan's future, explaining that he ran for council with a genuine desire to contribute to the city’s growth.
“I tried to make people understand that I’m not in it for any sort of agenda or money,” he said. “I’m just in it to make Estevan a really good place, and have my own positive impact on it. Maybe people resonated with that and understood that I’m in it for genuine growth.”
Having grown up in Estevan, Dubowski acknowledged that he didn’t always view the city positively. However, his perspective shifted as he witnessed the community’s growth and development over the years.
“I think my point of view, as someone from a younger generation, will bring a unique perspective. When I was growing up, Estevan didn’t feel like a youthful place. But over time, I’ve seen it improve, and I want to continue contributing to that positive change,” he said.
Dubowski’s interest in politics is a more recent development. He admitted to previously having a negative view of politics but became increasingly engaged over the past few years, starting with global and North American issues before turning his attention to civic matters.
“Honestly, I never would have imagined being as involved with politics as I am now. It really just happened in the past two or three years,” he shared.
As he prepares to take his seat on the council, Dubowski is eager to learn the ins and outs of municipal government and bring fresh ideas to the table.
“To the people who voted for me, I’m just incredibly grateful and thankful,” he said. “For someone as young as I am, who might not have prior experience with City Council, I hope to learn everything I can and contribute to good changes for Estevan.”